What is it about?
This research explores how special polysaccharides from seaweeds, called sulfated polysaccharides (SPs)—like fucoidan, carrageenan, and ulvan—are revolutionizing medicine. These natural compounds are not only safe for the body (biocompatible) but also possess amazing health benefits, including anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects . We show that by understanding and manipulating their unique molecular structure and sulfation patterns, we can precisely control how they behave . Using advanced techniques like 3D bioprinting and electrospinning, we can create innovative hydrogels and other biomaterials with tailored properties . This allows for incredible control over how these materials print, their mechanical strength, and how they release drugs, making them ideal for areas like tissue engineering, wound healing, and advanced drug delivery . Our work highlights that these SPs are not just passive ingredients, but active, adjustable components, bridging marine biology with cutting-edge biomaterial engineering to shape the future of regenerative medicine and biofabrication.
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Photo by Pedro Vit on Unsplash
Why is it important?
This topic is important because describe the transformations of algae-derived sulfated polysaccharides into active, customizable materials. It unlocks innovative, sustainable biomedical solutions for regenerative medicine and advanced drug delivery, leveraging marine resources.
Perspectives
As authors, we envision a future where sulfated polysaccharides are foundational in healthcare. By refining their properties and overcoming variability challenges, we can develop smart 4D implants, bioabsorbable microneedles, and precise drug delivery systems. This will revolutionize tissue regeneration and wound healing, while also expanding applications in functional foods and cosmetics.
Dr. Anselmo Miranda-Baeza
Universidad Estatal de Sonora
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Innovative applications of sulfated polysaccharides from macroalgae in hydrogels and biomaterials production, January 2025, American Institute of Mathematical Sciences (AIMS),
DOI: 10.3934/bioeng.2025026.
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